“The unexamined life is not worth living.”
– Socrates
The Greek philosopher Socrates shared this timeless quote in his work “Apology,” published in 399 BC.
It reminds us that reflection is crucial for personal growth and development. The theory is that by examining our thoughts, actions, and beliefs, we can better understand ourselves and find purpose and meaning in life.
While you may think back on various times of your life, do you reflect on the previous year before a new one begins?
Before turning the page on my calendar, I always take a look back. I think of it as my personal review.
Rather than an annual performance review that you may undergo at work, a personal review is a self-reflection that provides insight into what’s working in your life or what could be improved.
Reflection enables us to step back and see the big picture, often in a new way.
Are you happy to say goodbye to 2023? Excited about the prospects in the new year?
By looking back at what was, we can better determine what may be. Being mindful of where you are today and how you’ve changed in the past year is a valuable tool that can offer great insight.
My review uses a series of questions and asks me to think differently about the year that has just passed. Inevitably, the answers are not what I expect, and the process of reflection leads me out of my comfort zone.
That’s when growth and progress typically happen.
So, before you think about New Year’s plans, consider conducting your own personal review.
“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.”
– Aristotle
Find a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. Grab a pen, prepare to take notes, and ask yourself the following questions. You may be surprised by what you learn.
Question 1: What gave me energy this year?
This may not be a typical question many ask at year-end, but the things that energize us are usually aligned with our true selves. When your life is in alignment, it moves smoothly. You enjoy your days, and look forward to the next step. Opportunities come to you when you least expect them.
Note the events and activities that energized you this past year.
Question 2: What drained me of energy this year?
Networking events drain me. In the real estate business, I could attend networking events every week all year, but because they drain my energy, I choose wisely when deciding which events to attend.
Many struggle with fatigue, whether you’re well or dealing with health issues. Sometimes, fatigue is a result of a physical issue, but it can also become an issue when your energy is out of alignment. Is your body telling you to slow down and regroup?
When an activity drains me, I make a note of it in my calendar so I can refer back to it later and determine the exact issue.
Question 3: What surprised me this year?
Life can become routine. You awake at the same time, work the same hours, and rest on the weekends. You may socialize with the same friends and frequent the same restaurants. A routine may not illicit many surprises, but opportunities always exist for you to be surprised. Take note of them. Ask yourself what you learned from those experiences.
Question 4: What held me back this year?
There are many days throughout the year when I experience a flare of symptoms. Most times, I push through, but there are times that I’m held back. I’ve learned to accept they’re a part of my life.
Are there things you hoped to do but never got around to? Did you feel held back because of circumstances in your life? Can you move past them and try again?
Question 5: What new things am I thankful for?
Being grateful for our loved ones or the special times during the year may be easy, but did you find new things to be grateful for? When my son was young, we would end each day by challenging each other to name something new we were thankful for.
By expanding your gratitude, you learn to be thankful for challenges as well as the good times in life. Gratitude leads to a greater sense of happiness and an appreciation for life itself.
Question 6: Did fear hold you back this year?
Tim Ferris, author of The 4 Hour Workweek, nailed it when he said:
“What we fear doing most is usually what we most need to do.”
-Tim Ferriss
Fear stops us all at one time or another. If you’re afraid to fly, you probably don’t travel much. But fear is something everyone feels.
It’s part of life.
It’s usually a sign that we must address something in our lives. Reflecting on a time when fear held you back may open a door that’s been closed for too long.
Question 7: What were your greatest hits and worst misses this year?
By examining your hits and misses, you may better understand what you’d like to change. Your perspective will determine how you answer this question. The optimist will find more hits than misses, while the pessimist will detail every miss and have difficulty finding a hit. Regardless of your predisposition, try to analyze this question in a balanced way.
My hits: I was asked to contribute to a multi-author book of inspiration and became a bestselling international author. My misses: I neglected my self-care routine and failed to remain consistent on several social media platforms.
Question 8: Who were my most valuable relationships with?
Just as certain activities can bolster or drain us, relationships can do the same. You may feel like the Energizer Bunny when you’re with your best friend but struggle to maintain a relationship with others. Take note of those you’ve valued and tell them how you feel if they don’t already know.
Look for ways to expand your network of bunnies.
Question 9: What did I learn this year?
Answer this question by reflecting on both your personal and professional life. The lessons may have come in more than one area. Look at all areas of your life when considering what you’ve learned.
I’ve detailed many lessons from colleagues, friends, family, and, of course, my dogs. They’re all valuable in some way.
Question 10: What will I do differently next year?
This is part reflection and part guidance.
If you’re a goal-setter, this question can lead to planning your 2024 goals. But first, determine why you want to do something differently. By answering the why, you can lay out the path for how.
I made this review a part of my life when I began restructuring it, but anyone can benefit from this exercise.
Maybe these questions are not the right ones for you. If others seem more relevant, add them and remove the ones that don’t resonate with you.
The point is to take the time to reflect.
Examining your strengths, values, and goals can deepen your understanding of yourself. You’ll become better able to make decisions moving forward and ultimately learn to embrace an authentic life full of purpose and meaning.
If you decide to try this, let me know what you think! I’m confident you’ll agree it’s worth the effort.
Until next week, stay safe and be mindful.
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Thanks for sharing these question, Tracy. Reflection is crucial indeed.
I always appreciate your thoughts. Perfect read before the start of the New Year.